Patent · US Expired

Riser to sleeve attachment for flexible keel joint

US6422791B1 · kind B1 · utility

21Cited by
12References
35Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateApr 4, 2000
Grant dateJul 23, 2002
Priority date
Expiry dateApr 4, 2020

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10T403/451
  • WIPO fieldMechanical elements
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

An attachment extends between an outer sleeve and an inner riser pipe where the pipe penetrates the keel of a platform. In one version, the attachment is a conically-shaped with a small diameter ring that engages the riser pipe and a large diameter ring that engages the outer sleeve. This attachment has elements that are very flexible in bending but relatively stiff and strong in axial load. Other versions include flat rings where lateral load is taken directly into tension and compression in the beams, allowing for relatively high lateral load transfer. Both the conically-shaped attachment and the flat ring have a number of variations that provide low bending stiffness but high axial stiffness of the elements. Depending on whether resistance to axial loads, lateral loads, or resistance to combination of both loads is desired, the attachment and the flat ring may be used alone or in combination. Other variations of the device provide two opposing conical shaped attachments or a conical and flat ring attachment installed together to provide load capability in both axial and lateral directions while still providing angular flexibility.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.